Core Dog Vaccines: What Every Pet Owner Must Know

Being a responsible pet owner, your dog’s health is of the utmost concern and core dog vaccines are crucial in avoiding deadly diseases. Vaccinating your pet protects them from very contagious and deadly diseases, some of which can infect humans as well (like rabies).

But with so many contradicting views on the internet, how do you know what vaccines are core and how often your dog must have them? This guide simplifies everything you should know about core dog vaccines, from scheduling to cost, as well as safety facts.

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What Are Core Dog Vaccines?

Core vaccines are vaccinations that all dogs must have, irrespective of their breed, age, or lifestyle. They guard against diseases that are:
✔ Highly contagious
✔ Severe or fatal
✔ Prevalent in the environment

The American Animal Hospital Association (AAHA) and World Small Animal Veterinary Association (WSAVA) define the following as core vaccines for dogs:

• Rabies
• Canine Distemper
• Canine Parvovirus
• Canine Adenovirus (Hepatitis)

Non-core vaccinations (such as Bordetella or Lyme disease) are advised according to a dog’s risk factors (boarding, hiking, or geographic region).

Core Essential Vaccines for Dogs

1. Rabies Vaccine

• Why it’s necessary: Rabies is 100% fatal and can be transmitted to humans.
• Transmission: Bites from infected animals (bats, raccoons, foxes).
• Symptoms: Paralysis, foaming at the mouth, aggression.
• Vaccine schedule:
• First dose: 12-16 weeks
• Booster: 1 year after first dose, then every 1-3 years (variable by state statute).

2. Canine Distemper Vaccine

• Why it’s crucial: Distemper has no cure and is commonly fatal.
• Transmission: Airborne (sneezing, same food bowls).
• Symptoms: Fever, coughing, seizures, hardened paw pads.
• Vaccine schedule:
• Puppy series: 6-8 weeks, then every 3-4 weeks up to 16 weeks.
• Adult boosters: Every 3 years.

3. Canine Parvovirus Vaccine

• Why it’s important: Parvo has a 90% fatality rate in untreated dogs.
• Transmission: Contaminated feces, soil, or surfaces.
• Symptoms: Excessive vomiting, hemorrhagic diarrhea, dehydration.
• Vaccine schedule:
• Puppy series: 6-8 weeks, boosters every 3-4 weeks to 16 weeks.
• Adult boosters: Every 3 years.

4. Canine Adenovirus (Hepatitis) Vaccine

• Why it’s crucial: Lays the groundwork for liver failure and respiratory illness.
• Transmission: Saliva, urine, or contaminated surfaces.
• Symptoms: Jaundice, vomiting, abdominal pain.
• Vaccine schedule:
• Administered as a component of the DHPP combo vaccine (Distemper, Hepatitis, Parvo, Parainfluenza).
• Puppy series: 6-8 weeks, boosters to age 16 weeks.
• Adult boosters: Every 3 years.

Non-Core Vaccines (Lifestyle-Based)

Vaccine	Recommended For	Frequency
Bordetella	Boarding, dog parks, grooming	6-12 months
Leptospirosis	Rural areas, hiking, water exposure	1 year
Lyme Disease	Tick-infested environments	1 year
Canine Flu	Risk environments (kennels)	1 year

Puppy Vaccination Schedule

Age	Core Vaccines	Non-Core (If Needed)
6-8 weeks	DHPP (1st dose)	Bordetella
10-12 weeks	DHPP (2nd dose), Rabies	Leptospirosis
14-16 weeks	DHPP (3rd dose), Rabies booster	Lyme
12-16 months	All core boosters	Lifestyle-based boosters

| 12-16 months| All core boosters | Lifestyle-based boosters |

Adult Dog Vaccine Booster Shots

• Core vaccines: Every 1-3 years (vaccine and vet recommendations dependent).
• Non-core vaccines: As needed or annually.

Potential Side Effects of Dog Vaccines

Most dogs will experience mild reactions, including:

• Soreness at injection site
• Low-grade fever
• Lethargy for 24-48 hours

Rare but serious reactions (seek vet help immediately):

• Vomiting/diarrhea
• Facial swelling
• Difficulty breathing

How Much Do Dog Vaccines Cost?

• Core vaccines: $20–$50 per shot (packages may reduce costs).
• Rabies vaccine: $15–$35 (often required by law).
• Non-core vaccines: $30–60 each.

Tip: Low-cost clinics and pet wellness plans can help save money.

FAQs About Core Dog Vaccines

1. Can my dog skip vaccines if they’re mostly indoors?

No core vaccines protect against airborne and environmental threats.

2. Are there risks to over-vaccinating?

Vets follow 3-year protocols for most core vaccines to minimize risks.

3. What if my dog misses a booster?

Certain shots must be restarted in a series speak with your vet.

4. Can vaccines give dogs autism?

No this is a myth not based on science.

Conclusion

Core dog vaccines are not discretionary for your pet’s health. By following the recommended schedules and discussing lifestyle risks with your vet, you can protect your dog from deadly diseases.

Next Steps:
✔ Check your dog’s vaccination records
✔ Schedule overdue boosters
✔ Discuss non-core vaccines with your vet

Keep your pup safe vaccinate responsibly!